EMDR Therapists in West Orange, NJ

Photo of Lauren Charlip, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Charlip
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
I practice EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, IFS-informed parts work and I am newly trained in Brainspotting.
Now accepting new clients. I help women experiencing anxiety, trauma and burnout find more ease, clarity and calm. If your pregnancy, fertility, or postpartum experience has been tough, if you realize you're burnt out from work stress, parenting, or other life demands, or if you are navigating a difficult transition, a trauma, or hard relationship, I can help. My approach is welcoming, relaxed, and honors you as the expert in your own life. Together, we'll unpack your mental load and tend to your emotional needs. We'll also build your calming and coping toolkit to last beyond your time in therapy.
I practice EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, IFS-informed parts work and I am newly trained in Brainspotting.
Now accepting new clients. I help women experiencing anxiety, trauma and burnout find more ease, clarity and calm. If your pregnancy, fertility, or postpartum experience has been tough, if you realize you're burnt out from work stress, parenting, or other life demands, or if you are navigating a difficult transition, a trauma, or hard relationship, I can help. My approach is welcoming, relaxed, and honors you as the expert in your own life. Together, we'll unpack your mental load and tend to your emotional needs. We'll also build your calming and coping toolkit to last beyond your time in therapy.
(201) 957-7718 View (201) 957-7718
Photo of Sally Attia, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally Attia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
I am also an EMDR trained therapist .
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and/ or group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
I am also an EMDR trained therapist .
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and/ or group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
(732) 629-9663 View (732) 629-9663
Photo of Janet Hoffer - Dr. Janet Hoffer, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Janet Hoffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Many of the people I work with have complicated stories and families. They have struggled with relationships and symptoms of different kinds and come to therapy to share their experiences, perhaps for the first time. I am an experienced therapist with a full-time private practice. I work with adults and adolescents to help them have healthier relationships and build self-esteem. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I use EMDR skills to assist in treating traumatic events and relational trauma. I help parents and adolescents address emotional needs. I help couples develop trust and intimacy through Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Many of the people I work with have complicated stories and families. They have struggled with relationships and symptoms of different kinds and come to therapy to share their experiences, perhaps for the first time. I am an experienced therapist with a full-time private practice. I work with adults and adolescents to help them have healthier relationships and build self-esteem. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I use EMDR skills to assist in treating traumatic events and relational trauma. I help parents and adolescents address emotional needs. I help couples develop trust and intimacy through Emotionally Focused Therapy.
(973) 310-2117 View (973) 310-2117
Photo of Tarz F Palomba, JD, LP, NCPsyA, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Tarz F Palomba
Licensed Psychoanalyst, JD, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My services include psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, EMDR and conflict resolution (mediation).
Life is complicated. It helps to talk about it. I listen. We work together to find the core issues that need resolution, and to resolve them. I help people with anxiety, depression, grief, recovery, health concerns, work and family challenges, creative impasse, and life's complications.
My services include psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, EMDR and conflict resolution (mediation).
Life is complicated. It helps to talk about it. I listen. We work together to find the core issues that need resolution, and to resolve them. I help people with anxiety, depression, grief, recovery, health concerns, work and family challenges, creative impasse, and life's complications.
(862) 362-2368 View (862) 362-2368
Photo of Diana Bravo, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Bravo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
An experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who treats each of her clients with care and compassion. Diana's proven track record of treating diverse populations such as children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups allows her to effectively utilize methods such as CBT, mindfulness, meditation, psychotherapy, expressive arts, play therapy and EMDR Therapy. Graduating with a Master's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, Diana obtained a special certificate in Aging.
An experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who treats each of her clients with care and compassion. Diana's proven track record of treating diverse populations such as children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups allows her to effectively utilize methods such as CBT, mindfulness, meditation, psychotherapy, expressive arts, play therapy and EMDR Therapy. Graduating with a Master's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, Diana obtained a special certificate in Aging.
(973) 755-0939 View (973) 755-0939
Photo of Andrea Rawicz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Rawicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am an EFT-trained couples therapist (attachment-based emotionally focused therapy), EMDR-Certified, and completed an intensive internship in Structural Family Therapy.
I can, I'm capable, I have the capacity. My goal is to help you recognize these truths and use your strengths to improve your ability to cope with the difficulties you are going through. I view therapy as a collaborative process. Through our relationship, I will learn about your strengths and challenges and help bring you an awareness of both. We will also work on reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression or other roadblocks that are hurting your relationships or preventing you from achieving the things you aspire to. I'm interested in helping you challenge your negative assumptions and/or limitations about yourself.
I am an EFT-trained couples therapist (attachment-based emotionally focused therapy), EMDR-Certified, and completed an intensive internship in Structural Family Therapy.
I can, I'm capable, I have the capacity. My goal is to help you recognize these truths and use your strengths to improve your ability to cope with the difficulties you are going through. I view therapy as a collaborative process. Through our relationship, I will learn about your strengths and challenges and help bring you an awareness of both. We will also work on reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression or other roadblocks that are hurting your relationships or preventing you from achieving the things you aspire to. I'm interested in helping you challenge your negative assumptions and/or limitations about yourself.
(973) 287-3402 View (973) 287-3402
Photo of Joyce Baldinucci, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Baldinucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
If your life isn't what you'd like it to be, it may be time to seek help. You may be using alcohol or drugs to help you cope. Your marriage and life may be impacted by greater stress. Past traumas may be activated. Anxiety may be high. I am both an LCSW and LCADC with extensive training in IFS, EMDR, DBT, and EFT, and can help you develop effective coping skills as well as guide you to find more balance internally. Whether you are struggling with addiction, relationship difficulties, trauma or just "overwhelm," you will be better equipped to handle your life. You don't need to figure this out by yourself - reach out.
If your life isn't what you'd like it to be, it may be time to seek help. You may be using alcohol or drugs to help you cope. Your marriage and life may be impacted by greater stress. Past traumas may be activated. Anxiety may be high. I am both an LCSW and LCADC with extensive training in IFS, EMDR, DBT, and EFT, and can help you develop effective coping skills as well as guide you to find more balance internally. Whether you are struggling with addiction, relationship difficulties, trauma or just "overwhelm," you will be better equipped to handle your life. You don't need to figure this out by yourself - reach out.
(862) 520-9333 View (862) 520-9333
Photo of Dr. Kathleen Williams, YTT, Reiki, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kathleen Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, YTT, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
NOW is the moment of power. Now is the time to finally move beyond trauma, anxiety and depression toward a life worth living. I am a seasoned professional utilizing a variety of approaches (Attachment Theory, EMDR, Brain-Spotting, IFS, and Spiritual Psychotherapy). I mostly do Tele-Health with limited in-person time. I see myself as a facilitator toward your wholeness: you are the decision maker: emotionally, mentally and spiritually. The only limits are those placed on yourself. It's time my friend. I am a Shamanic-Reiki Practitioner in addition to my academic credentials. Reach out. Free 15 min consultation.
NOW is the moment of power. Now is the time to finally move beyond trauma, anxiety and depression toward a life worth living. I am a seasoned professional utilizing a variety of approaches (Attachment Theory, EMDR, Brain-Spotting, IFS, and Spiritual Psychotherapy). I mostly do Tele-Health with limited in-person time. I see myself as a facilitator toward your wholeness: you are the decision maker: emotionally, mentally and spiritually. The only limits are those placed on yourself. It's time my friend. I am a Shamanic-Reiki Practitioner in addition to my academic credentials. Reach out. Free 15 min consultation.
(732) 523-0830 View (732) 523-0830
Photo of Amy C. Cox-Martins, MS, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy C. Cox-Martins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Currently I am accepting new therapy clients and I provide a safe haven where one can open-up and explore their thoughts and feelings. Sometimes situations or emotions have caused stumbling blocks in one's life. Together we can understand the core of the problem and progress to optimum mental health. Through building a relationship between therapist and client, we can work through even the most difficult of mental health concerns. I have been in private licensed psychotherapy practice since 1991. My current specializations and certification, transgender, non binary, LBGTQ. and EMDR I offer in person and virtual sessions.
Currently I am accepting new therapy clients and I provide a safe haven where one can open-up and explore their thoughts and feelings. Sometimes situations or emotions have caused stumbling blocks in one's life. Together we can understand the core of the problem and progress to optimum mental health. Through building a relationship between therapist and client, we can work through even the most difficult of mental health concerns. I have been in private licensed psychotherapy practice since 1991. My current specializations and certification, transgender, non binary, LBGTQ. and EMDR I offer in person and virtual sessions.
(908) 545-9419 View (908) 545-9419
Photo of Samantha J Smith: Transgender Queer Specialized Hrt letters, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha J Smith: Transgender Queer Specialized Hrt letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
We have practitioners who utilize EMDR, somatic work, and CBT in our practice where we focus on work with depression, anxiety, life stressors and more, taking an analytic approach.
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
We have practitioners who utilize EMDR, somatic work, and CBT in our practice where we focus on work with depression, anxiety, life stressors and more, taking an analytic approach.
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(201) 399-3591 View (201) 399-3591
Photo of Gretchen MacBryde, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gretchen MacBryde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
If you are seeking compassionate, effective treatment for your disturbing emotional symptoms, if you are tired of suffering, I first want to commend you for seeking help. I have worked with people with disabling emotional dysregulation and trauma survivors for 30 years. I work extensively with survivors of trauma, domestic violence, addiction, gender identity issues. I offer: EMDR, DBT and couples treatment.. I want to express my respect for your willingness to seek help and end the suffering.
If you are seeking compassionate, effective treatment for your disturbing emotional symptoms, if you are tired of suffering, I first want to commend you for seeking help. I have worked with people with disabling emotional dysregulation and trauma survivors for 30 years. I work extensively with survivors of trauma, domestic violence, addiction, gender identity issues. I offer: EMDR, DBT and couples treatment.. I want to express my respect for your willingness to seek help and end the suffering.
(973) 321-4068 View (973) 321-4068
Photo of Susan J Hodos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan J Hodos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
I have training and experience in psychoanalysis,CBT, IFS, EMDR, and Sex Therapy.
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
I have training and experience in psychoanalysis,CBT, IFS, EMDR, and Sex Therapy.
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
(973) 949-6034 View (973) 949-6034
Photo of Carol Covelli, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Covelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
I provide online EMDR and Brainspotting therapy throughout NY, NJ, and FL to help entrepreneurial women over 40 rewrite their narratives of "I'm not good enough" that had been imprinted on their minds and bodies because negative past experiences holding them back from success.
You’re an woman over 40 who is talented, capable and introspective. Despite your achievements both personally and professionally, you still have nagging feelings of being "not good enough" that gnaw at you with every accomplishment or hurdle. This may show up in your life as perfectionism, overachieving, a deprivation or scarcity mindset, procrastination, anxiety, or multitasking to oblivion. You long to get to the root of these feelings and change that faulty narrative. You’re through with feeling “not good enough” and you're ready to find the right therapist to go on the journey with you to rewrite this narrative.
I provide online EMDR and Brainspotting therapy throughout NY, NJ, and FL to help entrepreneurial women over 40 rewrite their narratives of "I'm not good enough" that had been imprinted on their minds and bodies because negative past experiences holding them back from success.
You’re an woman over 40 who is talented, capable and introspective. Despite your achievements both personally and professionally, you still have nagging feelings of being "not good enough" that gnaw at you with every accomplishment or hurdle. This may show up in your life as perfectionism, overachieving, a deprivation or scarcity mindset, procrastination, anxiety, or multitasking to oblivion. You long to get to the root of these feelings and change that faulty narrative. You’re through with feeling “not good enough” and you're ready to find the right therapist to go on the journey with you to rewrite this narrative.
(332) 239-2388 View (332) 239-2388
Photo of Sharon Rothbart, RN, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Rothbart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EMDR while I incorporate a multitude of therapy modalities to meet your needs.
I will assist you in identifying your strengths, and to help you flourish. I appreciate people's complexities, and will help you formulate the best way to move toward your goals. I have experience supporting clients with anxieties, panic, trauma, depression, isolation, divorce, relationship and career issues, and the grief associated with illness or loss. I am an avid LGBTQ supporter and have a deep commitment to human rights and exploring the gender spectrum as part of a healthy journey in life. I also help parents understand, support and accept children who are in the process of questioning their gender.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EMDR while I incorporate a multitude of therapy modalities to meet your needs.
I will assist you in identifying your strengths, and to help you flourish. I appreciate people's complexities, and will help you formulate the best way to move toward your goals. I have experience supporting clients with anxieties, panic, trauma, depression, isolation, divorce, relationship and career issues, and the grief associated with illness or loss. I am an avid LGBTQ supporter and have a deep commitment to human rights and exploring the gender spectrum as part of a healthy journey in life. I also help parents understand, support and accept children who are in the process of questioning their gender.
(973) 888-1125 View (973) 888-1125
Photo of Emily Zelner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Zelner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I draw primarily from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Psychodynamic therapy, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Therapy is a collaborative process that hinges on a relationship of trust and understanding. I offer my clients a warm, supportive and non-judgmental space where together we can explore and resolve whatever challenges you may be experiencing. Many of us have developed adaptations to our environments which may result in patterns and behaviors that no longer serve us. The work of therapy is to examine these adaptions with compassion and explore opportunities for growth and change.
I draw primarily from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Psychodynamic therapy, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Therapy is a collaborative process that hinges on a relationship of trust and understanding. I offer my clients a warm, supportive and non-judgmental space where together we can explore and resolve whatever challenges you may be experiencing. Many of us have developed adaptations to our environments which may result in patterns and behaviors that no longer serve us. The work of therapy is to examine these adaptions with compassion and explore opportunities for growth and change.
(862) 902-2940 View (862) 902-2940
Photo of Holly Heston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Heston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
Holly's approach is based on a Holistic and Strengths-based model while also utilizing tenets of Cognitive-and Dialectical behavioral therapies, as well as EMDR.
Holly’s experience as a therapist has led her to understand the importance of connecting with individuals, joining them in their journey to heal, grow and realize their true potential. Guiding clients to develop effective strategies and techniques to recover from a wide range of addictive behaviors, life challenges and mental health concerns while helping them to recognize their own personal strengths and talents has been beneficial in helping clients achieve ongoing success and optimal wellness.
Holly's approach is based on a Holistic and Strengths-based model while also utilizing tenets of Cognitive-and Dialectical behavioral therapies, as well as EMDR.
Holly’s experience as a therapist has led her to understand the importance of connecting with individuals, joining them in their journey to heal, grow and realize their true potential. Guiding clients to develop effective strategies and techniques to recover from a wide range of addictive behaviors, life challenges and mental health concerns while helping them to recognize their own personal strengths and talents has been beneficial in helping clients achieve ongoing success and optimal wellness.
(862) 329-5480 View (862) 329-5480
Photo of Megan Shane, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Shane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(862) 358-8191 View (862) 358-8191
Photo of Dia DeAngelis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dia DeAngelis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Everyday life can be messy and even overwhelming at times. It can be especially difficult to navigate when we feel, anxious, confused, unmotivated, or frustrated. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey. I would like to congratulate you for seeking counseling as it can be challenging to do so. I offer in person and Telehealth counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families, groups, and couples.
Everyday life can be messy and even overwhelming at times. It can be especially difficult to navigate when we feel, anxious, confused, unmotivated, or frustrated. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey. I would like to congratulate you for seeking counseling as it can be challenging to do so. I offer in person and Telehealth counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families, groups, and couples.
(862) 354-6057 View (862) 354-6057
Photo of Susan Parente, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan Parente
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Your family doctor would not offer the same treatment to every patient dealing with physical pain. You should expect the same type of individualized and nuanced treatment when you or your family member experiences pain of an emotional nature. A licensed psychologist with 20+ years of clinical experience and an integrative orientation, I've modeled my psychological treatment approach on the family doctor paradigm. My goal is to explore, assess, identify, and then compassionately and collaboratively address the unique presenting life issues of each patient with knowledge, positivity, and creativity.
Your family doctor would not offer the same treatment to every patient dealing with physical pain. You should expect the same type of individualized and nuanced treatment when you or your family member experiences pain of an emotional nature. A licensed psychologist with 20+ years of clinical experience and an integrative orientation, I've modeled my psychological treatment approach on the family doctor paradigm. My goal is to explore, assess, identify, and then compassionately and collaboratively address the unique presenting life issues of each patient with knowledge, positivity, and creativity.
(973) 509-1113 View (973) 509-1113
Photo of Jan Summers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jan Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
For many years, I have helped couples learn the communication components necessary for strong, resilient relationships. You'll learn to use your strengths effectively in your work and personal life while resolving your weaknesses. Using a tried and true approach to decision making, I will help you develop a plan to move you towards your goals. We will deconstruct the causes of stress, tension and painful upsetting moods in your life. Privacy, confidentiality and respect for your needs are fundamental to my work with you.
For many years, I have helped couples learn the communication components necessary for strong, resilient relationships. You'll learn to use your strengths effectively in your work and personal life while resolving your weaknesses. Using a tried and true approach to decision making, I will help you develop a plan to move you towards your goals. We will deconstruct the causes of stress, tension and painful upsetting moods in your life. Privacy, confidentiality and respect for your needs are fundamental to my work with you.
(973) 947-4839 View (973) 947-4839
1

EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.